Heartfelt Letter to a Puppy Mill Breeder
During Lily’s time with Teresa, every effort was made to heal the scars of abuse and neglect that marked her years in a puppy mill.
Teresa Strader founded the National Mill Dog Rescue in 2007 in memory of Lily, her greyhound, who had endured the horrors of life in a mill. For seven years, Lily lived in confinement, her days spent in a cold wire cage within a foul-smelling barn. She was deprived of exercise, social interaction, and even basic care, forced to produce litter after litter, merely seen as a breeding machine.
Lily’s health deteriorated in the mill. Years of neglect led to decayed teeth and jaw, lumps covering her chest, and a deep fear of people. Despite this, after her rescue, she found love and attention she had never known before. Sadly, her life ended at seven years old, but not before she touched many lives with her story.
Teresa’s journey with Lily compelled her to write a heartfelt letter to the person responsible for her suffering. This letter, shared with permission from National Mill Dog Rescue, seeks to resonate not only with that individual but with anyone involved in such cruelty.
Teresa reflects on the conditions she witnessed: anxious and sick dogs trapped inside wire fences, their fearful eyes haunted her. She emphasizes that while breeders may adhere to regulations, treating dogs as mere livestock is inhumane. Dogs have been our protectors, hunters, and beloved companions for thousands of years—they deserve better.
Through her years of rescue work, Teresa encountered many dogs, but Lily’s story stands out. Named “Reedgates Swift Motion,” this greyhound never knew the joy of running due to the life of confinement she endured. When she was rescued, Teresa removed the chain from around her neck and replaced it with a collar, giving Lily the freedom she deserved.
Lily’s story reminds us of the resilience of these animals and the importance of treating all living beings with compassion. Despite her challenges, Lily found love and courage through the care she received, touching the hearts of everyone she met.
This message, though directed to a specific breeder, carries a universal plea: let’s end the cycle of cruelty and give these animals the lives they deserve.
